The Madaba Mosaic Map

A Pilgrim's Guide to the Holy Land

Step into the unassuming Church of St. George in Madaba and witness one of the most significant and fascinating archaeological treasures in the world. This 6th-century mosaic map is the oldest known geographic floor mosaic in existence, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the Byzantine world and providing a vital key to understanding the biblical landscape for pilgrims and historians alike.

Why the Madaba Mosaic Map Is Significant

– The Oldest Holy Land Map: Created in AD 560, this map is the oldest surviving cartographic representation of the Holy Land, from Egypt to Palestine.
– Pilgrim’s Roadmap: It served as a visual guide for Byzantine pilgrims, meticulously depicting over 150 biblical sites, complete with Greek labels, making the scriptures tangible.
– Historical Verification: The map’s detailed illustration of Jerusalem, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, was a crucial piece of evidence used in the real-world excavation of the city’s ancient sites.
– Artistic Masterpiece: Originally composed of over two million tesserae (stone pieces), it is a stunning work of art that showcases the incredible skill of Byzantine mosaicists.

What to See

– The Map Itself: Although partially damaged, the surviving section (approx. 16 x 5 meters) is rich with detail. Key highlights to spot include:
– Jerusalem: The central and most detailed element, showing cardo (main street), city walls, and major churches.
– The Jordan River: Flowing through the center of the map.
– The Dead Sea: Depicted with two fishing boats.
– Biblical Sites: Look for labels for sites like Bethlehem, Gaza, Hebron, and Mount Nebo.
– The Church of St. George: An active 19th-century Greek Orthodox church built upon the ruins of a 6th-century Byzantine basilica.
– Interpretive Centre: The ticket office features excellent informational displays that explain the map’s history, symbolism, and conservation, enhancing your viewing experience.
– Icon & Gift Shop: A small shop sells beautiful reproduction icons, maps, and souvenirs.

Historical Timeline

– AD 560: The mosaic map is laid as the floor of a large Byzantine basilica.
– 746 AD: The basilica is destroyed by a major earthquake.
– 1884 AD: The mosaic is rediscovered during the construction of the modern Church of St. George.
– 1965-Present: Ongoing conservation and preservation efforts by international and Jordanian experts.

Visitor Information

– Location: In the heart of Madaba city, just 30 km southwest of Amman.
– Recommended Duration: Allow 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the map, visit the interpretive centre, and explore the church.
– Opening Hours & Mass Times: The church is generally open daily. Important: On Fridays and Sundays, the church opens for Mass at 7:00 AM, during which tourist viewing of the map is not permitted. It is best to visit outside of these worship times.
– Site Size: The church itself is modest. The preserved section of the mosaic map measures approximately 16 meters long and 5 meters wide, though it is believed the original was significantly larger.

Pro Tips

– Visit the Interpretive Centre First: The information there will help you know what to look for on the map, making your viewing much more rewarding.
– Binoculars are Helpful: Bring a small pair to spot the finer details and Greek inscriptions from the viewing platform.
– Dress Respectfully: As an active place of worship, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required.
– Explore Madaba: Known as the “City of Mosaics.” Visit the Madaba Archaeological Park and the Church of the Apostles to see more stunning Byzantine mosaics.

Beyond the Map

– Mount Nebo: Just 10 km away, the presumed burial site of Moses, offering breathtaking views and its own incredible mosaics.
– Bethany Beyond the Jordan: The Baptismal Site of Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
– The Dead Sea: The lowest point on Earth is a short 30-minute drive from Madaba.

Why Visit the Madaba Mosaic Map?

This isn’t just an ancient artifact; it is a window into the world of early Christianity. It connects the stories of the Bible to real, physical places, making it a profoundly moving and educational experience for people of all faiths and for anyone interested in history, art, and archaeology.